A Legend's Unconventional Endorsement: Shaq Crowns Curry 'GOAT'
Shaquille O'Neal's Initial Views on Player Dominance
Shaquille O'Neal has always been vocal about what constitutes true greatness in the NBA. He frequently references his own 'most dominant player ever' status, reflecting a strong sense of his impact on the game. His pronouncements on other players' legacies are often delivered with conviction, setting a high bar for inclusion in his personal pantheon of basketball legends.
The Surprising Turn: Curry as the 'GOAT'
A recent social media post juxtaposing Stephen Curry's scoring prowess with O'Neal's own drew a remarkable response from the big man. With Curry steadily climbing towards the top 10 all-time scoring list, closing in on O'Neal's current #10 spot, the question was posed: 'Is Steph officially more 'unstoppable' than Shaq ever was?' O'Neal's concise reply, 'That's ok with me curry is the goat,' marked a significant and unexpected shift in his public opinion.
Previous Omissions and Inconsistencies
This recent endorsement stands in stark contrast to O'Neal's earlier public statements. Just weeks prior, during a promotional event, he had notably excluded Curry from his personal top 10 NBA players list, which included iconic figures like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, and LeBron James. Furthermore, in a separate discussion about current top five NBA stars, Curry was again conspicuously absent from O'Neal's selections, creating a pattern of omission that made his latest 'GOAT' declaration all the more intriguing.
The 'GOAT' Conversation: A Previous Call to Action
Adding another layer of complexity, O'Neal had, in fact, advocated for Curry's inclusion in the 'greatest of all time' discussions on an episode of Inside the NBA the previous year. He urged fans to acknowledge Curry's unique contributions, placing him alongside the all-time greats he had competed with and against. This history of fluctuating opinions underscores the dynamic nature of such debates, even among the game's most respected voices.
Business Implications and Brand Alignment
Beyond the court, O'Neal's comments carry significant weight due to his executive and ambassadorial role with Reebok, a brand actively seeking to re-establish its relevance in the competitive sneaker market. Curry's recent departure from Under Armour has placed him in sneaker free agency, making him a highly sought-after endorsement. Publicly overlooking Curry twice, only to later label him the 'GOAT,' creates a fascinating, if somewhat awkward, public relations scenario for Reebok, especially if they consider pursuing a partnership with one of basketball's most marketable global icons.
Curry's Unparalleled Marketability and Cultural Impact
Stephen Curry is more than just a superstar; he is arguably the most influential basketball player of the past decade. His global appeal, ability to resonate across generations, and deep connection with both avid and casual fans make him an invaluable asset for any brand. For Reebok, aligning with Curry could offer an instant revitalization in the basketball world. This intertwining of on-court judgment and off-court business interests highlights how branding and influence have become inextricably linked in the modern era of sports.